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Meniscus Tear

Overview

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A meniscus tear refers to a tear or injury to the meniscus, which is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located in the knee joint. The knee has two menisci, one on the inner side (medial meniscus) and one onx the outer side (lateral meniscus). The menisci serve as shock absorbers and provide stability to the knee joint.

Meniscus tears can vary in location, size, and configuration. Common types of meniscus tears include:

  • Radial Tear: A tear that extends from the inner edge of the meniscus toward the outer edge.
  • Horizontal Tear: A tear that occurs parallel to the surface of the meniscus.
  • Bucket Handle Tear: A tear that creates a displaced fragment that resembles a "bucket handle."
  • Flap Tear: A tear that creates a flap of meniscal tissue.
  • Complex Tear: A tear that involves multiple patterns or extends into different regions of the meniscus.
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Causes & Symptoms

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Meniscus tears commonly occur due to a combination of factors, including sudden twisting or rotating movements of the knee while bearing weight. Meniscus tears can result from sports activities, especially those involving pivoting, twisting, or direct trauma to the knee. Degenerative changes associated with aging can also make the menisci more prone to tears.

Individuals with a meniscus tear may experience symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, a catching or locking sensation in the knee, difficulty fully extending or flexing the knee, and instability or a feeling of the knee giving way.

Diagnosis and Treatment

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Physical examination involves assessing the range of motion, stability, and specific tests to check for meniscus integrity. Imaging tests such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be used to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the location and extent of the tear.

The management of a meniscus tear depends on various factors, including the location, size, and configuration of the tear, as well as the individual's age, activity level, and associated knee injuries.

  • Non-Surgical Treatment: Non-surgical treatment may be recommended for individuals with small tears, stable tears, or those who do not have significant symptoms or functional limitations. It typically involves rest, activity modification, physical therapy, and pain management to reduce symptoms and improve knee function.
  • Surgical Treatment: Surgical intervention may be considered for individuals with larger, symptomatic tears or tears that are causing functional limitations. The surgical procedure may involve meniscus repair, where the torn edges of the meniscus are sutured together, or meniscectomy, where the torn portion of the meniscus is trimmed or removed.

Post operative care

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Rehabilitation is an important part of the recovery process after a meniscus tear, whether treated non-surgically or surgically. Physical therapy is focused on reducing pain, restoring knee range of motion, improving strength, stability, and function of the knee, and gradually returning to normal activities and sports.